Page 10 of How to: Hide a Baby

“Wait a sec. He’s up.” Luc relaxed slightly. “Thank heavens.”

“He seems to be all right, but he could still have a concussion. Where’s the doctor?” Grace fussed. “Oh, no. Now he’s yelling at the police.”

“Probably for letting Carina go.”

She stiffened in alarm. “Why does that policewoman have her handcuffs out? They’re not going to arrest him, are they? He hasn’t done anything wrong.”

“Except give the police a hard time, knowing Brand. They tend to frown on that.” He watched the screen, an intent expression on his face. “Good. They’re releasing him.”

“Great, except where’s he going?” She pointed at the screen. “Now he’s leaving the building, too.”

“Damn!” Luc thrust a hand through his hair. “He’s going after Carina. I should have guessed he’d pull something like that.”

“But what about Tony?” Her eyes widened in disbelief. “He can’t expect us to take care of him, can he?”

Luc smiled grimly and nodded. “That’s exactly what he expects. Looks like we have babysitting duties until Brand catches up with Carina.”

“Oh, no. No way. Not a chance. Call his cell and tell him to come back right now.”

Before he could respond, the interoffice phone rang. Luc snatched it up. “Edward? How’s Brand? Yes, yes. I know he left. Where’s he headed?” He covered the mouthpiece and spoke to Grace, “I was right. He’s on his way to the airport. Hang on, Edward. I’m putting you on the speakerphone.” He punched a button.

“Er... Mr. Salvatore? Can you hear me? This is Edward Rumple speaking. Over.”

“We hear you,” Grace said. “Is Brand all right? He isn’t hurt too badly?”

“Just a goose egg, Ms. Barnes. Hardly any blood at all.” He cleared his throat. “But there is just one little problem.”

“What is it, Edward?” Luc asked.

“Well, ah, you aren’t going to like this.”

“Spit it out.”

“Yes, sir, Mr. Salvatore. See, Mr. Brand happened to mention the baby the young lady left behind and, ah, well, the truth is... To be perfectly honest...”

“Edward!”

“I thought I’d better warn you that—”

A loud pounding sounded on the outer door. “Police. Open up, please.”

“—the police are on their way up,” Edward finished lamely.

For an instant Luc didn’t move. Then in a calm, collected voice, he said, “Thank you, Edward. Keep everything under control down there and notify me the instant Brand returns. I’ll deal with the police.” Hanging up the phone, he crossed to the door.

“Luc?” Grace said uncertainly.

He spared her a brief glance. “It’ll be okay. Just try not to look worried and let me do the talking.” At her nod, he opened the door and held out his hand. “Hello. I’m Luc Salvatore, president of Salvatore Enterprises. What can I do for you...?” He checked their nametags. “Officers Cable and Hatcher.”

“We’re responding to a report of an abandoned infant,” said Officer Cable. She glanced at the baby Grace held. “Is that the child?”

“This baby isn’t abandoned,” Luc stated firmly, moving to stand between Grace and the policewoman.

“No?” Officer Hatcher, a tall, sturdy man, stepped forward. “Is he yours?”

“He’s my nephew.”

The two officers exchanged quick glances. “I’m afraid we’ll have to see some identification,” Cable requested.

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